Children in need will be getting some surprise presents this Christmas thanks to a fund-raising campaign by people who use the Bank of Bermuda. Bank clients raised more than $5,000 through a silent auction organised by the bank?s commercial banking department.

The Bank of Bermuda agreed to match the funds, taking the total amount raised to $10,000.

The cash has now been handed over to the Salvation Army?s Anonymous Santa Programme.

Organisers say the scheme helps families in need during the festive period by collecting gifts from members of the community and distributing them to youngsters.